Split reel

A 35mm split reel. This photo shows the two halves of the split reel, with a core holding a small amount of 35mm film on the half on the left.

A split reel is used when handling film stored on a core. In exhibition settings, they are used to transfer film from storage on cores to show reels for projection. They exist for all film gauges.

In projection settings

Split reels are not recommended for projection. The two halves of a split reel are only held together by the threaded spindle in the center of the reel, and they can loosen and separate if used on a projector.

It is also advised that you pay attention to the orientation of the split reel halves, so that when it is placed on a rewind spindle it is not rotating in a direction that will cause them to separate. This is unlikely to happen when rewinding film at a reasonable speed, but better safe than sorry.

Resources

• Split reels can be purchased from Goldberg Brothers through an authorized distributor like your cinema service company or one of the below cinema supply companies. 70mm split reels must be purchased through a service company or directly from Goldberg.
  • Urbanski Film - 16mm and 35mm split reels
  • Christys - 16mm split reels only

See also

• Reels
• Core